Navigating Conflict Navigating workplace conflict is no easy feat. It demands more than just a sense of awareness. It requires the right tools and words that transform conflict into constructive dialogue. This is where Karin Hurt and David Dye step in with their insightful book, Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict: What to Say Next to De-Stress the Workday, Build Collaboration and Calm Difficult Customers. In this book, the co-founders of Let’s Grow Leaders provide a practical guide designed to arm professionals across various industries with the verbal tools needed to t ..read more

Life Lessons Life throws us countless chances to lead. Sometimes we’re out in front; other times, we’re the silent force behind a success. Each moment, each challenge, teaches us. Who are we? How do we shape our world? Here are ten life lessons for those who lead—or aspire to. They touch every slice of life, from quiet moments alone to the triumphs we share with a team. They offer advice on riding the highs and handling the lows. The first six of these lessons have been circulating online. I’m not sure where they originated but appreciate the simple wisdom. I decided to add some of my own tho ..read more

How a balcony, a bridge, and third side changes it all Interview with William Ury In an era where conflict looms large from personal interactions to global politics, understanding the dynamics of discord and the strategies for resolution has never been more critical. Enter William Ury. He’s a name synonymous with groundbreaking negotiation strategies. Ury, who has a storied career that includes co-authoring the seminal book Getting to Yes, which has sold over 15 million copies worldwide, is also a co-founder of Harvard University’s Program on Negotiation. His insights have helped resolve comp ..read more

Understanding Self-Worth Many stories we encounter are filled with lessons, but they are more likely myth than reality. One such story involves Picasso in a restaurant sketching on a napkin. While it’s unlikely this event ever happened as told, the story offers a profound message about recognizing the true value of expertise and mastery. It goes something like this: In a bustling restaurant, an excited patron recognized the famous artist Picasso dining alone. Seizing the moment, the patron approached Picasso with a simple request. With a plain napkin and a big smile, he asked the artist for a ..read more

Leadership in the storm   Imagine you’re on a boat. The sky is overcast and the waves are picking up. Your hand’s on the wheel…and the crew’s eyes are on you. It’s decision time. This isn’t just another day on the water—it’s a moment that defines who you are as a leader. Oleg Konovalov’s vision of leadership doesn’t come from textbooks. It’s born from the icy spray of the North Atlantic, where nature’s lessons are often unforgiving. It’s often in the quiet moments that leaders are built. But it’s in the stormy ones they are revealed. Oleg’s journey from the deck of a fishing trawler to t ..read more

An Active Process Listening isn’t just about hearing. It’s an active process. It’s about understanding, interpreting, and responding appropriately. Effective leaders know that to truly listen is to connect. It’s not merely waiting for your turn to speak. It’s about being fully present, giving your undivided attention to the speaker, without preconceived notions clouding the conversation. Why does this matter? Because leaders who listen can better navigate the complexities of today’s workplace. They build stronger teams and inspire loyalty.   Leadership thrives when listening leads. Disc ..read more

Earth Day (Earth Day Quotes can be found here) On April 22, 1970, Earth Day was born. Senator Gaylord Nelson and activist Denis Hayes took a stand against environmental neglect. This historic movement transcended political lines, igniting changes that led to environmental legislation and the establishment of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Earth Day is not just about the planet. It’s about leadership. Consider the oak tree. It starts as a humble acorn. With time, it grows into a towering presence. The oak doesn’t sprout overnight. It takes constant nurturing, a steady hand, and an u ..read more

Become Iconic Scott McKain and I have had countless discussions on the nuances of customer service—a subject where he is an undisputed expert. His insights are always invaluable, so whenever Scott writes a new book, it captures my attention. In his books and speeches, he challenges businesses not just to excel, but to “create distinction” in their fields. But what happens after a business achieves that pinnacle of becoming best-in-class? According to Scott, the next step is to attain an iconic status that sets a company apart so profoundly that it becomes a benchmark within its industry. It’s ..read more

Disrupt or be Disrupted Today virtual realms and digital frontiers are becoming the new battlegrounds.  In The Metaverse Workplace Revolution: A Path to Greater Profitability, a Stronger Culture, and Industry Disruption, published by Fast Company Press, Jason Gesing shares his vision of a future where the Metaverse is not just an option, but a necessity for business innovation. Gesing equips leaders with actionable strategies to thrive in this new virtual terrain. And very important to me: he emphasizes the importance of not just adopting new technologies, but also valuing and empowering ..read more

The Power of Goals A colleague of mine once said, “If you don’t set measurable goals and you fail? You’ve lost any chance to learn. And if you succeed but don’t know why? It might as well have been luck.” We often mistake activity for accomplishment. We’re doing stuff! We’re working hard! Things are happening! But are they the right things? If you haven’t set good, measurable goals, you just won’t know. Remember: you can get your heart pumping by running in place, but you won’t get anywhere. Listen in and get some good tips on how to set goals in different situations, and how to ensure buy in ..read more